While it may sound like an advertisement, a VPN really is super important while abroad. Let me break down what a VPN is, what it allows you to do, and why you should get one!
What is a VPN?
- VPN stand for Virtual Private Network.
- It takes your network data - search queries, photos, videos - and encrypts them before passing it on to a server in a location you select. It then passes that data through to the website you are trying to visit, making it look like you are in that location.
- Using encryption, using a VPN hides all network traffic, so no one can see what you are looking at.
❕ Tip: You can test to see if your VPN is working by going to www.whatismyip.com before and after connecting to your VPN, and making sure that the IP Addresses are different.
What does a VPN allow you to do?
- Switching your location allow you to access region blocked content:
- Streaming services do not always have the same catalog of content in all territories
- Local websites (like banks) will not always allow you to access their services outside of your country of residence
- Some workplaces may region lock their accounts for security - I ran into this while in Asia
- Some countries (such as Vietnam), block access to certain websites (in Vietnam’s case, Reddit)
- If you use unsecured WiFi networks while traveling (like in a cafe or airport), the data passing over the internet is not always encrypted and can be “listened” to
- If you are someone who likes to sail the high seas to download Linux ISOs, then a VPN protects you and your landlord from receiving DMCA complaints
- VPNs can also make it more difficult for advertisers to track you online, but this also requires good cookie hygiene
❕ Tip: If you plan on using a VPN to access region blocked media, look for a VPN service that has special servers for this purpose.
What to Look for in a VPN?
- When you choose a VPN, make sure it does not keep any logs, meaning there is no information about what sites you have visited ever stored.
- You also want to make sure you are paying for it. If you ever use a free service, you are the product - and this is one service where you do not want to be the product.
❕ Tip: Try to look for a VPN with a “killswitch” - it will cut off all internet activity if the VPN becomes disconnected
❕ Tip: VPNs with built-in ad blocking are also available, if that is your thing
We recommend using Windscribe as your VPN - and we were not paid to say that. They have a low-cost “all you can eat” plan, locations all over the world, and a strict no logging policy. You can check them out here: windscribe.com.
We also recommend trying out Private Internet Access, in case Windscribe does not meet your needs. You can check them out here: PIA.
Check out this map of VPN relationshsips:
